BACKGROUND: Proximal interphalangeal joint (PIPJ) contracture is a difficult problem to treat regardless of etiology. Although numerous interventions have been recommended, published results are mediocre at best. OBJECTIVE: The authors describe their experience and results of using a modification of pins and rubber band traction (PRBT) - applying a dynamic extension apparatus to a contracted PIPJ using the constant traction force in a stretched rubber (elastic) band. METHOD: A retrospective review of patients treated with this method was performed, and the results are presented. The technique itself is described, and clinical photographs illustrate the method. RESULTS: Mean PIPJ flexion contracture before PRBT was 82° (range 60° to 110°). The full correction of eight contracted PIPJs in seven patients was achieved, in a mean of 17.8 days (range 14 to 31 days). At one month postremoval of PRBT, the mean PIPJ flexion contracture was 22.8° (range 0° to 46°). DISCUSSION: The method is compared with previously described methods of PIPJ contracture correction, whether surgical or splinting; the latter may be static, dynamic or a combination of the two. The results of previously published studies are discussed and compared with the method described. CONCLUSION: The present method is a powerful and effective simplification of a previously described method of correcting PIPJ contractures. This technique is simple, 'low-tech' and can be applied under local anesthetic; the authors believe it offers a useful adjunct to surgical release.
BACKGROUND: Proximal interphalangeal joint (PIPJ) contracture is a difficult problem to treat regardless of etiology. Although numerous interventions have been recommended, published results are mediocre at best. OBJECTIVE: The authors describe their experience and results of using a modification of pins and rubber band traction (PRBT) - applying a dynamic extension apparatus to a contracted PIPJ using the constant traction force in a stretched rubber (elastic) band. METHOD: A retrospective review of patients treated with this method was performed, and the results are presented. The technique itself is described, and clinical photographs illustrate the method. RESULTS: Mean PIPJ flexion contracture before PRBT was 82° (range 60° to 110°). The full correction of eight contracted PIPJs in seven patients was achieved, in a mean of 17.8 days (range 14 to 31 days). At one month postremoval of PRBT, the mean PIPJ flexion contracture was 22.8° (range 0° to 46°). DISCUSSION: The method is compared with previously described methods of PIPJ contracture correction, whether surgical or splinting; the latter may be static, dynamic or a combination of the two. The results of previously published studies are discussed and compared with the method described. CONCLUSION: The present method is a powerful and effective simplification of a previously described method of correcting PIPJ contractures. This technique is simple, 'low-tech' and can be applied under local anesthetic; the authors believe it offers a useful adjunct to surgical release.
Entities:
Keywords:
Distraction; Joint contracture; Pins and rubber band traction; Proximal interphalangeal joint
Authors: Randall O Craft; Anthony A Smith; Brandon Coakley; William J Casey; Alanna M Rebecca; Scott F M Duncan Journal: Plast Reconstr Surg Date: 2011-11 Impact factor: 4.730